Chovy Frohlich and Angelina Rodriguez
Rape Victims Advocates
228 S. Wabash -- Suite 240
Chicago, IL 60604
312-663-6303
773-401-1637
Everyday, thousands of people are raped or molested, yet most victims of sexual violence never feels safe enough to report
to the police or even tell friends or counselors. As a crisis intervention counselor, it is important to be able to recognize
how rape impacts the lives of victims and how to respond appropriately to victims in a sensitive and empowering manner.
This workshop will provide concrete techniques on how to advance the healing process for survivors of sexual violence, as
well as provide insight on suitable resources and referrals.
Often, myths about rape feed the systems of oppression that create rape. Covering up the truth and maintaining myths can
inadvertently "blame the Victim" and protect perpetrators. This presentation will confront myths with realities and include
statistics, definitions, prevalence, and information about the diversity of victims and perpetrators. Importance will be
placed on the differences between sex and Sexual Assault and between consent and non-consent.
Moreover, the presentation will explore "The Aftermath of Sexual Assault" including a detailed description of Rape
Trauma Syndrome (RTS), which is a form of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder characterized by two phases: (1) The Acute
Phase, and (2) the Reorganization Phase. The discussion will reveal the particular emotional, psychological and physical
concerns that many survivors experience as a result of their victimization.
Finally, the presentation will include an interactive play that reviews the resources for survivors, families, friends, and
organizations. With dramatic performance (lead by volunteers from the audience) participants will learn all the resources
available for survivors from the moment of the attack to the emergency room to the long-term counseling and recovery
options. This discussion of resources will conclude with instructions on how participants can be more accessible and can be
a resource themselves if they follow some simple "Do's" and "Don'ts" when working with sexual assault survivors.
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